30
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

How to Save The Most Money When Buying a House

Buying a house is one of the most significant financial decisions in one's life, and it's essential to make smart choices to save money during the process. While purchasing a home can be expensive, there are several strategies you can implement to maximize your savings and make the most of your investment. Here are some valuable tips on how to save as much money as possible when buying a house: Research and Compare Mortgage Options: When considering a mortgage, do thorough research to find the best interest rates and terms available. Compare offers from multiple lenders and don't be afraid…
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24
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

What Are The Pros And Cons Of ‘No-Deposit’ Mortgage Deals For First-Time Buyers?

"No-deposit" mortgage deals for first-time buyers refer to mortgage options that allow buyers to purchase a home without having to put down a deposit or a down payment. Here are the pros and cons of such deals: Pros: Lower upfront costs: The most significant advantage of a no-deposit mortgage is that it eliminates the need for a substantial upfront deposit. This can be beneficial for first-time buyers who may struggle to save a large sum of money for a deposit. It allows them to enter the property market sooner. Increased affordability: With a no-deposit mortgage, first-time buyers can purchase a…
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23
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

3 Ways To Avoid Mortgage Insurance

When you are buying a home, you may run into a number of hurdles to complete the purchase. One of the items that you may be asked to purchase is called private mortgage insurance, often shortened to PMI. This is a unique insurance policy that your lender, such as the credit union or bank, may ask you to buy in order to protect themselves. In this insurance policy, the bank protects themselves against losing money if you end up defaulting on your loan. Unfortunately, if you are asked to purchase PMI, this will increase your monthly mortgage payment. Therefore, most…
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21
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

What Do Appraisers Consider When Valuing a House?

Appraisers consider several factors when valuing a house to determine its fair market value. The goal of the appraisal is to provide an unbiased and accurate assessment of the property's worth. Here are the key factors appraisers consider: Location: The location of the property is one of the most critical factors in determining its value. Proximity to amenities such as schools, shopping centers, parks, public transportation, and the overall desirability of the neighborhood can significantly influence the value. Size and layout: The square footage and layout of the house play a crucial role in its valuation. Larger houses generally have…
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17
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage,

Vacation Home or First Mortgage Payoff?

Imagine having some extra cash on hand, enough to make a significant financial decision that could potentially shape your future. You've worked hard to build equity in your home, and now you find yourself at a crossroads. Should you invest in a vacation home or use the money to pay off your first mortgage? Vacation Home-Pros A Place to Escape: Owning a vacation home provides you with a tranquil getaway, a place to unwind and recharge. It offers the potential for making lasting memories with family and friends. Rental Income: If you decide not to use the vacation home year-round,…
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15
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

Understanding Mortgage Loan Origination Fees

When purchasing a home, a mortgage loan is often a necessary financial tool to make homeownership a reality. However, along with the excitement of buying a house comes the complexity of navigating the various costs involved. One such cost that often puzzles homebuyers is the mortgage loan origination fee. Let’s delve into what mortgage loan origination fees are, why they exist, how they are calculated, and some essential tips to consider when dealing with these fees. What are Mortgage Loan Origination Fees? A mortgage loan origination fee is an upfront charge imposed by lenders to process and underwrite a new…
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